“What they did in soccer was awesome and it absolutely provides some inspiration for us. We have unique challenges here, though, and we’re focused on just getting better as a program and first making the playoffs.”

American Leadership Academy coach Chas Ryan

(5 returning starters; 4-3 defense)

Ryan worked as defensive coordinator before becoming head coach and will keep his system largely in place.

"I like the talent we have on defense and hopefully the offense can be productive enough that they don't have to be on the field as much as we've had to in the past," he said.

Coaches preseason 2A North straw poll: Sixth

Deseret News Region 4 prediction: Sixth

Bottom line: Increased depth should provide more than two wins for ALA this season. Should the team remain healthy throughout the season it could make a push for the postseason.

Felt’s Facts for American Leadership Academy

All-time record: 10-59 (7 years)

Region championships: 0

Playoff appearances: 5

All-time playoff record: (0-5)

State championships: 0

State championship record: (0-0)

Most played rivalry: Seven meetings with Manti dating back to 2006. Manti leads 7-0.

Felt’s Factoid(s): ALA is one of six private schools that compete in football. ... Eagle Jordan Lamb is one of just 16 prep gridders in Utah to return an interception 100 yards (2011).

Brandon Gurney covers recruiting, high school sports, and BYU athletics for the Deseret News. Previously, he worked with scout.com for eight years, covering BYU, with an emphasis on recruit coverage. He joined the Deseret more ..